PTSD As A Work-Related Condition
- Posted on: Nov 15 2021
Usually, when we hear post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), we think about veterans unable to assimilate back into society. However, PTSD can result from traumatic experiences or injuries at work. In some cases, this can also make one eligible for worker’s compensation.
But showing the connection between work and PTSD can be challenging. With that in mind, let’s look at how one can claim to be experiencing PTSD while on the job.
PTSD On The Job
Specific work experiences can trigger PTSD symptoms in workers. These include:
- Developing depression or anxiety after a physical injury
- Getting assaulted or robbed
- Witnessing a fatality or another traumatic event when at work
The truth is that every worker is at risk of experiencing any of these traumatic events while on the job. However, certain workers have a higher risk of on-the-job PTSD because of the nature of their work since it exposes them to a greater risk of witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. These include:
- Law enforcement officers
- Fire Fighters
- Workers in any hazardous industry
- Medical workers
- Military Servicemembers
- Retail workers
- Teachers
How To Know You Have Work-Related PTSD
Flashbacks, mood changes, debilitating anxieties, and sleeping issues are common problems that follow work-related injuries relating to PTSD.
These are also signs that a worker is struggling with PTSD symptoms. Therefore, under such circumstances, these mental health conditions are considered work-related illnesses. And because they are work-related, the worker is deemed eligible for Workers Compensation coverage of PTSD.
This would typically include payment for any mental health services and compensation for lost wages. The latter is expected if the worker is out of work due to a psychological condition stemming from PTSD.
Compensation For PTSD
Since diagnosing PTSD can be challenging, especially concerning work-related injuries, receiving compensation becomes problematic as well. PTSD treatment following work-related experiences is also rarely provided – and when it is provided, it is barely adequate.
Applying for compensation is even more of a challenge since there is no direct connection between work and PTSD. However, with the help of experienced medical and legal professionals, workers can get the support they need to pursue treatment and care.
Conclusion
If you are diagnosed with PTSD following a work-related injury, ensure you seek the help of an attorney to help you get the compensation, treatment, and care you need. It is not unusual to get coverage for a psychological injury. Therefore, don’t shy away from obtaining compensation for work-related mental health conditions. Get ahold of us today so that we can discuss the options you have to receive your work-related compensation for PTSD.
Posted in: Blog, Work Injuries, Workers Compensation Benefits